10 Jun What Is New Hampshire’s Motorcycle Week?
Each year in mid-June the state of New Hampshire celebrates a unique and exciting tradition called Motorcycle Week. During Motorcycle Week, motorcyclists and motorcycle enthusiasts gather in Laconia, New Hampshire for the world’s oldest bike rally. In the early years of the event, back in 1916, the rally started off as the Gypsy Tour, with a couple hundred motorcyclists whereas today there are upwards of one hundred thousand motorcycles at the New Hampshire rally. Laconia’s bike week is considered one of the largest bike rallies in the continent, alongside Daytona, Myrtle Beach and Sturgis.
The rally ended up with the location of Laconia, New Hampshire due to the fact that many out-of-state motorcycle travelers enjoyed riding to the Lakes Region for the stunning views and scenic routes. Each year, more and more motorcyclists would join the rally and in 1934 the Loudon Classic Motorcycle Race was launched. This is an event which began before the Loudon Speedway was even constructed and was initially held on a simple road course. Today the event is held annually at the speedway and other events include the Laconia Short Track, demo rides and new in 2022 the inaugural Musket Dirt Shootout.
Although, titled Motorcycle “week”, what is now also known as bike week is actually a 10-day long event which is not exclusive to just motorcycle riders or racers. Many tourists and locals, along with the motorcyclists, enjoy the distinct atmosphere of the festival. The event is loaded with entertainment, competitions and vendors which fill the streets of the Weirs Beach area of Laconia. Local businesses open their doors to the riders and spectators of the event, often providing special opportunities or discounts throughout the rally. The exciting annual Hillclimb event is held at nearby Gunstock Mountain where spectators can watch riders attempt to scale the massive hill and enjoy multiple stunt shows throughout the day.
The much anticipated 100th Anniversary of Laconia’s Motorcycle Week will be held from June 10th – June 18th 2023! If you are looking to stay close to the action, but still enjoy some peace and quiet, we recommend booking your lodging at the Summit Resort, located just walking distance from Weirs Beach. The spacious two-bedroom suites will have enough room to fit all your motorcycle gear and the included amenities like the indoor pool and Roman Spa hot tub offer a nice place to unwind after a long and exciting day at the rally.